Description
This 400-acre site includes 20 one-acre fish rearing ponds (several ponds along Herring Creek) with water control structures and a 90-acre lake containing bottomland hardwoods. Trails wind along Herring Creek, through mixed hardwood woodlands, and past two seasonal ponds. The riparian woods attract numerous woodland songbirds, as well as, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies, and the occasional reptile. Harrison Lake is also accessible for fishing.
Look for plovers and sandpipers around the rearing ponds on the way to the woods. Photo Credit: Lisa Mease/DWR
Notes:
- To access Harrison Lake, a Restore the Wild Membership, Virginia hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required.
- The trails around the site do not require a permit to access.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (as reported to eBird)
- Killdeer
- Turkey Vulture
- Sharp-shinned Hawk
- Bald Eagle
- Red-tailed Hawk
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Savannah Sparrow
- Song Sparrow
- Canada Goose
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Interpretive Nature Program
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Boat Ramp
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 11116 Kimages Rd, Charles City, VA 23030
From I-295, take the VA-5 E/New Market Road exit toward Charles City, turn left onto SR-658/Kimages Road, turn right at the Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery sign, then either turn left at the T-intersection to reach Harrison Lake or turn right for the hatchery and trail parking.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.
Site Information
Managed By:
- VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources